Walt Grantski and his wife started Lifestyle Drapery in 1989 in South Omaha as a workroom fabrication service to the design trade. Their first ten years in business were devoted to this endeavor, then in the late ‘90s they began selling direct to the contract market. Over the last 5-6 years, their business has grown dramatically in that area and their specialty is now in the bidding and installation of solar shading systems controlled by building management software.
Tell us a little about your family.
First off, I’m in business with my wife of over 40 years, Mary K. Grantski. She’s my partner and confidant and manages our workroom services department. I have one daughter, Christine Cummins, and two beautiful grandkids, Macy (10) and Grant (8).
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Undoubtedly, it was graduating from college after going some six years at night while working full time as a sales rep. Getting that degree set the stage for all that followed.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Everyone who knows me knows my passion for cars, both old and new. I am a member of a local club that hosts its own annual show and we often take our cars as a group to various events throughout the summer.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
One thing that people may not know is that I’m a Vietnam veteran and have done past charity work at the local VA hospital. I belong to a Veterans Business Forum and have met many proud Americans who are now seeking to become engaged citizen business entrepreneurs.
What are you the most proud of?
That’s easy! My grandkids!!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
My dad always used to say to me “If you want anything in this life, you better learn to work for it, because I can’t give it to you.” He meant it and I knew it.
What is the one goal you would most like to accomplish?
I am working very diligently right now to position Lifestyle Drapery Service Inc. as a CVE (certified Veteran Owned) business.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
The ability to instill a winning attitude in today’s younger employees who are so often struggling with finances and personal issues.
What are your plans after retirement?
We are looking for a little acreage with a metal building where I can tinker with all my toys and mama can do a little quilting. We’ll travel some, follow the Huskers a little closer, and of course spend more time with the grandkids.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Accurate decision making ability: to know that on any given decision, I’m likely right rather than wrong.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
My goodness; I knew you would ask me a tough one. The last book I read was GW’s Decision Points.
What is your favorite movie?
The first real western classic comes to my mind: Shane
What is your favorite TV show?
I’m a political junkie when it comes to watching late night TV. Fox carries most of my favorites.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
I would have to say Charleston’s tops the list.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Our Lord, who else?
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Give us a call anytime at (402) 556-1950 or you may e-mail me at blindman@Lifestyledrapery.com. They can also visit our company website at www.Lifestyledrapery.com.